The Car Connection Expert Review

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Dislikes

The 2011 Kia Rio has a perky driving feel and roomy interior, though the lack of refinement, low safety scores, and dated styling limit its appeal.

The 2011 Kia Rio is now one of the most aged designs in this class, and it's looking passable but bland inside and out. The Kia Rio has changed very little in appearance and retains pretty much the same styling and design that was introduced for 2006.

Inside, the look sure isn't daring in any way either. It's basic but straightforward, and while it's not upscale, it's not chintzy either. The design is still sound, with the climate and audio controls and most other switchgear up high and within easy reach.

Considering the Rio's low price, the driving experience is surprisingly good, with a peppy feel in most respects. The Rio handles reasonably well, brakes seem strong, and there's enough gumption from the powertrain and 110-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine for most driving, aside from high-speed passes.

The 2011 Kia Rio offers a well-designed interior, but it doesn't step outside its small-car roots or offer any packaging magic. There's space for four adults on board—or three kids across in back, in a pinch—but there's not a lot of legroom back there and the bench seat is rather hard. Front seats are a bit short but otherwise comfortable, with a good driving position. Across the model line, engine noise can be an issue; it's obtrusive during acceleration and when cruising at higher speeds.

Throughout the interior, materials and finishes are very impressive. At the time the Rio was introduced, its trims and overall cabin look were at the leading edge among the lowest-priced small cars, and they still stand up reasonably well today.

Because of lackluster crash-test scores, combined with the lack of key safety features on some trims, you'll want to think twice about the 2011 Kia Rio if safety is a priority. With 'poor' ratings from the IIHS and a three-star showing in the former, more lenient federal tests, the Rio's side impact protection clearly isn't impressive. And electronic stability control, which is now standard even on many inexpensive small cars, can't be had at all in the Rio.

While the base-model Rio strictly offers reliable transportation on a tight budget, the 2011 Kia Rio and Rio5 come well-equipped in their upper trims. The Rio SX model gets a sportier suspension, alloy wheels, fog lamps, and a spoiler, plus sport seats, leather trim, and Sirius Satellite Radio. LX and SX models have a USB audio port, and while there aren't officially any factory options, a Bluetooth hands-free calling interface is available at extra cost.

Very good value for the price (Rio 5 sport edition)

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I am very happy with this car, Rio 5 sport edition, manual transmission, fun to drive, specially after 15 years of using an automatic van that was better adapted for my family. Now that the children are gone...
I am very happy with this car, Rio 5 sport edition, manual transmission, fun to drive, specially after 15 years of using an automatic van that was better adapted for my family. Now that the children are gone, this car gives me the pleasure I was looking for, despite its average performance. I also wanted a car that would not cost me a fortune, both to buy and to drive it (gasoline, repairs, etc. ...). + More »

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February 13, 2016

For 2016 Kia Rio

Get the right options and model and this car is a standout.

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My 2012 Rio SX is everything I need, sporty with 17" wheels, navigation, heated leather seats and nearly 40 mpg. Equipping this car right turns it from an econobox to a small but extraordinarily roomy road...
My 2012 Rio SX is everything I need, sporty with 17" wheels, navigation, heated leather seats and nearly 40 mpg. Equipping this car right turns it from an econobox to a small but extraordinarily roomy road car. Crossed the country on the Lincoln Highway and Route 66 and coudn't have enjoyed it more. + More »

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January 27, 2016

2016 Kia Rio 4-Door Sedan Manual LX

Very happy with the car!

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I've had my 2015 Rio LX+ with the 6-speed manual and have driven it more than 20k Km. I really enjoy driving it. I'm very happy with it's overall performance which I consider FUN. Wish the passenger seat is...
I've had my 2015 Rio LX+ with the 6-speed manual and have driven it more than 20k Km. I really enjoy driving it. I'm very happy with it's overall performance which I consider FUN. Wish the passenger seat is also adjustable! + More »